It's time for the Media Create Japanese chart results once again, as we see how the retail sector has held up following a 3% increase in sales tax in the country, from 5% to 8%. That may sound trivial, but as has been proven in multiple marketplaces a small percentage change in sales tax can prompt consumers to rush ahead with pricier purchases — which can include gaming hardware — in order to enjoy a lower price before a universal leap.

Perhaps a combination of the tax increase and an absence of big hitting new releases are to blame for disappointing figures this week. To start with software, Nintendo will be pleased that Mario Party: Island Tour is on top, going past a quarter of a million physical retail sales in the process, while Level-5's Yo-kai Watch maintains its momentum. It was a quiet week, overall, however, with Just Dance Wii U making a modest début appearance.

It's in the hardware results that the most significant decreases can be found. Every single system's sales dropped, with the 3DS LL (XL) enduring the sharpest fall after excellent results last week; Vita is on top, but still behind the 3DS when both models are combined. It's grim reading for home consoles, meanwhile, as Sony's still-young PS4 falls further and the Wii U drops back into four figures.

Welsh ex-pat Tom is responsible for the day-to-day running of the site. He's the guy to thank for the generally brilliant nature of the content which massages your eyeballs on a daily basis. Also has an unhealthy obsession with all things Bowser.